Investment in Education and Healthcare Essential for Nation Building: Sheetal Teli-Ugale
Pune, 28th July 2025: “Medical science is constantly evolving with new technologies. To effectively integrate these advancements into daily healthcare services, a skilled workforce is essential. Although outcomes in the health and education sectors are not immediately visible, investment in these areas is critical for building a developed India,” said Sheetal Teli-Ugale, Commissioner of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Maharashtra.
She was speaking at the inauguration of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Sanjeevani Medipoint Speciality Hospital, Aundh, on Sunday, July 27. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries including Dr. Basavaraj Teli, Deputy Inspector General, Criminal Investigation Department, Maharashtra; Prashant Waghmare, City Engineer, Pune Municipal Corporation; Dr. Ajay Chandanwale, Director of Medical Education department, Maharashtra; Dr. Shivram Bonagiri, Health Expert; Manish Oswal, Director, Sanjeevani Medipoint Speciality Hospital; and Dr. Shrinivas Tambe, Head of the NICU, Sanjeevani Medipoint Speciality Hospital.
Teli-Ugale, recalling her previous roles as Additional Municipal Commissioner, Chief Executive Officer of the Zilla Parishad, and District Collector, shared her insights from closely observing rural and urban health systems. She emphasized that, “Today, the need for trained professionals in the medical field is increasing rapidly with each technological advancement. When we speak of a developed India, investing in human capital becomes a necessity. Although results in the health and education sectors take time, such investments always pay off in the long run.”
Dr. Basavaraj Teli, addressing the importance of safety in hospitals, particularly NICUs, said, “Ensuring the safety of both doctors and patients is paramount. Many recent incidents have highlighted the importance of strong safety protocols, especially at NICUs. During the COVID-19 period, I witnessed numerous cases of violence against doctors. The new legal provisions now safeguard healthcare professionals more effectively.”
He elaborated on recent legislation that protects doctors from immediate criminal charges. “Under the new law, if a complaint is raised, no doctor is directly booked. The matter is first referred to a medical board. Action is taken only based on the board’s report. However, beyond laws, it is essential to maintain strong doctor-patient communication and ensure quality treatment.”
Stressing on the duty of doctors to act with humanity and sensitivity, especially in high-stress situations involving infants, Dr. Chandanwale said, “For any mother, her child is the highest priority. If the child is in the intensive care unit, her concern naturally increases. In such situations, doctors must treat with utmost sensitivity and compassion.”
“Healthcare services in Pune are expanding rapidly,” said Prashant Waghmare. “Thanks to experienced doctors, skilled human resources, and advanced technologies, Pune is emerging as a vital medical hub,” he added.
Manish Oswal delivered the vote of thanks.
